Trusts & Estates Litigation Associate Attorney

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP; Oakland (CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Job summary

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP is seeking a Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney in California with 5+ years of dedicated experience in trust, estate, and conservatorship litigation. You will lead complex disputes, manage case strategy, and draft persuasive pleadings while mentoring junior attorneys.

The position emphasizes collaboration with partners and client-focused advocacy. The role offers a hybrid schedule (3 days in office after 90 days), a tiered bonus program, and a competitive base salary with

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA‑accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
• 5+ years of experience specializing in California Trust & Estates Litigation.
• Strong understanding of the California Probate Code, related statutes, and case law.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to draft persuasive legal documents.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with trial preparation and courtroom advocacy preferred.
• A track record of resolving complex litigation matters and hybrid work adaptability.

Responsibilities

• Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Handle discovery, including depositions and related proceedings.
• Prepare for and attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
• Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
• Develop and implement effective case strategies.
• Collaborate with partners and other attorneys on complex matters.
• Mentor junior attorneys and support staff; maintain accurate time records and billing compliance.

Skills

Legal research

Litigation strategy

Client communication

Case management

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree

Active California State Bar membership

Job description

Donahue Fitzgerald is a highly respected and growing law firm with a strong commitment to providing exceptional legal services to our clients. Our Trusts and Estates Litigation practice is a cornerstone of our firm, recognized for its sophisticated handling of complex and high-stakes disputes. We pride ourselves on a collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance. We represent a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals, fiduciaries, and charitable organizations, in all aspects of trust and estate controversies.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Trust & Estates Litigation Attorney to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of dedicated experience in trust, estate, and conservatorship litigation in California. This role offers the opportunity to manage a diverse caseload, work closely with partners, and take a lead role in all phases of litigation, from initial case assessment through trial and appeal.

We believe in rewarding hard work. Our attorneys have a minimum billable hour requirement of 1,610 hours per year. For those who meet or exceed this goal, our tiered bonus program provides a clear path to increase your earnings significantly.

The annual base salary for this position is $165,000 to $195,000. Depending on billable hours, total compensation can range up to $207,000 for those at the lower end of the salary range, or up to $245,000 at the higher end.

Job Duties And Responsibilities

• Manage and litigate complex trust, estate, and conservatorship disputes, including but not limited to:
  • Will and trust contests (e.g., undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud)
  • Breach of fiduciary duty claims against trustees, executors, and conservators
  • Petitions for instructions and accountings
  • Spousal property petitions
  • Elder abuse actions (financial and physical)
  • Conservatorship contested matters
  • Probate and trust administration disputes
• Conduct legal research and analysis, draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Handle all aspects of discovery, including propounding and responding to written discovery, and taking/defending depositions.
• Prepare for and attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.
• Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
• Develop and implement effective case strategies.
• Collaborate with partners and other attorneys on complex matters.
• Mentor junior attorneys and support staff as needed.
• Maintain accurate time records and ensure compliance with billing requirements.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.
• 5+ years of demonstrable experience specializing in California Trust & Estates Litigation.
• Strong understanding of the California Probate Code, related statutes, and case law.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to draft persuasive legal documents and advocate effectively in court.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach.
• Experience with trial preparation and courtroom advocacy is highly preferred.
• A proven track record of successfully resolving complex litigation matters.
• Ability to work a hybrid schedule of 3 days in the office after completing 90 days of employment.

Donahue Fitzgerald LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The salary range for this position applies to California. Salary range is $165,000 – $195,000. The salary range does not guarantee, obligate, or set expectations of an applicant’s salary in the event of hire. Actual compensation will depend upon several factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s years of experience, qualifications, and skill set.